Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in the Mediterranean? Head to Palma de Mallorca! Discover stunning beaches, historic cathedrals, lively markets, and beautiful seaside promenades. Whether you're strolling cobblestone streets, sunbathing on white-sand beaches, or savoring tapas in a buzzing plaza, Palma offers a vibrant mix of culture, history, and relaxation.
Palma de Mallorca Highlights:
- La Seu Cathedral: Marvel at the iconic Gothic cathedral overlooking the sea, featuring a canopy by Antoni Gaudí and stunning stained glass windows.
- Palma Old Town: Wander through narrow medieval streets lined with boutiques, hidden courtyards, historic mansions, and charming cafés.
- Bellver Castle: Visit one of Europe’s few circular castles with panoramic views of Palma and the sparkling Mediterranean.
- Mercat de l'Olivar: Explore this vibrant indoor market offering local seafood, meats, cheeses, fruits, and tapas bars.
- Paseo Marítimo: Stroll, bike, or relax along this scenic waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, marinas, and open-air cafés.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Palma de Mallorca is during the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). Enjoy warm, sunny days perfect for exploring beaches and city sights, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer (July–August) is lively but hot and busy, while mild winters are great for cultural trips and quieter stays.
My tips for getting There
- By Plane: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is the main gateway to the island, located just 15 minutes from downtown Palma by car or bus.
- By Ferry: Regular ferries connect Palma with Barcelona, Valencia, and Ibiza, making it easy to reach the island by sea.
- By Bus or Taxi: Local buses, taxis, and rental cars provide easy access around the city and the rest of Mallorca.
Where I like to stay
- Hotel Cappuccino – Boutique luxury hotel with rooftop pool, stylish rooms, and a perfect location in the historic center.
- HM Balanguera – Modern Mediterranean design hotel offering comfortable rooms close to Old Town and the harbor.
- Hotel Born – Elegant former 18th-century palace with a grand courtyard, steps from top attractions in Palma’s historic district.
Best Things to Do
1. Climb to the Top for Stunning Views at Castell de Bellver
The castle was built during the first decade of the 14th century as a royal residence. Three kings stayed there briefly before the monarchy was deposed in 1343. Subsequently it was used as a prison. It is a large multi-story circular structure with four towers. The arches leading to the courtyard are semi-circular on the first floor and Gothic on the second floor. Various features were added over the centuries, including a moat and drawbridge. The state gave control of the castle to the Palma City Council to be used for the Palma History Museum and cultural events.
Carrer de Camilo José Cela, s/n 07014 Palma, Phone: 971-73-50-65
2. Taste Your Way Through Local Flavors at San Juan Foodhall
The food market is situated in a large open multi-story 20th century, modernist building. It is a place where cuisine from various regions and countries can be enjoyed. There is food from Asia, Europe and the Americas. Meat, seafood and vegetarian options abound. Cakes, chocolates and truffles will satisfy a sweet tooth. There is a brewery on site and a bar that takes up one wing of the building. It is the ideal place to meet after work, dinner or the theatre. The foodhall is open 7 days a week, from midday to midnight and beyond.
Carrer de l'Emperadriu Eugènia, 6, 07010, Palma, Phone: +34-64-66-06-71
3. Stroll Historic Streets and Seaside Vistas in Palma’s Old Town and Port
There is much to see in this 'other Mallorca'. Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance architecture chronicles the history of the town since the early 14th Century. The main historical landmark is the La Seu Gothic Cathedral with its Modernista interior touches, the Spanish equivalent of Art Nouveau. Narrow streets, courtyards and pedestrian walkways make it easy to walk and explore the quaint specialist shops. Cafés, restaurants and bars offer daytime refreshment and nighttime entertainment. The waterfront attractions include a picturesque beach, the seafront and the yacht basin.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Marvel at Gothic Grandeur in the Catedral de Mallorca
The many changes that have been made to the cathedral over the past eight centuries reflect the history of Mallorca. It was conceived during the reign of Jaime I. The altar was consecrated to signify the change from a mosque to a place of Christian worship. Construction began during the reign of his successor, Jaime II. Baroque and Modernista influences are evident in the interior. The cathedral is still evolving. Masses are held daily in the mornings and evenings. Tourists can visit outside of these time, during the day. The cathedral's archives are available to the general public.
Catedral de Mallorca, Plaza de la Almoina S / N, 07001 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: 971-71-31-33
5. If You Love Seaside Chic and Fine Dining, Stay at Portixol Hotel and Restaurant
This small, exclusive hotel is situated in the harbor at Palma, within walking distance of the town center. Portixol Hotel And Restaurant combines modern comforts with traditional touches. The decor is a combination of Scandinavian simplicity and Mediterranean colors. The suites and rooms, some with private terraces, have views of either the sea or the harbor. The restaurant is open from 07:30 till 23:00 and serves a buffet breakfast, a set menu for lunch and a la carte for dinner. Guests can make use of the spa, sauna and gym. Massages and beauty treatments are also offered. The venue is available for training, business meetings and conferences.
Calle Sirena 27, 07006 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: +34-9-71-27-18-00
6. Sample Inventive Tapas and Cocktails at Buscando El Norte
Buscando El Norte is a quiet, cozy tapas bar in the center of Palma. The fusion of traditional and contemporary cuisine, artfully presented, has won the restaurant numerous awards. They serve light lunches of meat, fish or salads, with sauces and garnishes. They have reinvented old classic recipes for their a la carte tapas style dinner menu. Diners experiment with several portions of the miniature cuisine or share a large platter containing a selection. Their desserts round off a good meal. They also have an impressive beer and wine list and range of cocktails.
C / San Miguel, 77 Palma de Mallorca, Phone: +34-8-71-96-66-19
7. If You Crave Boutique Luxury, Book Hotel Sant Francesc and Dine at Quadrat
A mansion built in the 19th century has been transformed into the Sant Francesc 5-star boutique hotel complex. Hotel Sant Francesc and Quadrat Restaurant is situated off the Plaza de Sant Francesc, in the heart of old Palma. Many of the original frescoes and features have been retained in the 42 rooms and suites. A collection of contemporary artwork and photographs lines the walls. The Quadrat restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and supper and serves Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. Patrons can choose to eat indoors or dine al fresco. Food and beverages can also be enjoyed in the Lobby Bar and on the rooftop terrace.
Plaza Sant Francesc, 5, 07001 Palma Of Majorca, Phone: +34-9-71-49-50-00
Where to Eat
- Marc Fosh – Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Mediterranean cuisine crafted from local, seasonal ingredients.
- Forn de Sant Joan – Atmospheric eatery serving creative tapas, seafood, and Spanish classics in a historic former bakery.
- Bar España – Lively tapas bar popular with locals, known for delicious small plates, local wines, and a vibrant atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Festa de Sant Sebastià (January) – Celebrate Palma’s patron saint with concerts, fireworks, bonfires, and lively street parties.
- Palma International Boat Show (April–May) – See luxury yachts, sailing demonstrations, and marine exhibitions at the harbor.
- Nit de l'Art (September) – Experience a magical night where galleries, museums, and streets fill with art exhibitions, music, and festivities.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Palma de Mallorca:
- Valldemossa (25 min) – Visit a charming mountain village famous for its stone streets, historic monastery, and connections to Chopin.
- Sóller (30 min by vintage train) – Ride a historic wooden train through the mountains to this picturesque coastal town.
- Illetas Beach (15–20 min) – Relax at one of the island’s prettiest small beaches, perfect for swimming and lounging under the sun.
- Castell de Sant Carles (10–15 min) – Explore a coastal fortress turned military museum with harbor views and historic cannons.
- Portals Nous (20–25 min) – Enjoy upscale marina vibes, fine dining, and designer boutiques in this stylish beach town.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What is Palma the capital of?
- Palma is the capital of the autonomous region known as the Balearic Islands.
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Where is Palma located?
- The city is situated on the south coast of the island of Mallorca, in the Mediterranean Sea.
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How old is Palma’s history?
- The history of the city stretches back more than 2000 years.
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How has Palma's history influenced its culture?
- The island had strategic territorial value and has changed hands several times, with each conquering nation or religion leaving its mark.
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What is the main industry in Palma?
- Tourism is the major industry, with half of the population employed in the sector.
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How many tourists visit Palma each year?
- Almost 30 million visitors arrive on the island by plane or by sea each year.
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What other industries contribute to Palma’s economy?
- Agriculture and mining also contribute significantly to the thriving economy.
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